Progress from the Collective Effort
WFF AND THE LINKS SUPPORT SUMMER SPRUCE UP AT JETT ST. GARDEN
Thanks to the generosity of the Dogwood City Chapter of The Links, coordination by Westside Future Fund, and the volunteer power of neighborhood seniors, the Jett St. community garden is getting a makeover on Sunday, June 14th, just in time for summer. The garden has received support in the past from Historic Westside Gardens and WFF’s Westside Volunteer Corps. This weekend, residents living near the garden will come together to spruce up the space. Abdul Rashada, a 20-year resident of English Avenue, is one of the organizers. Rashada has a deep, personal appreciation for the Jett St. gem. “The community garden brings life to this part of the neighborhood,” he said. “It’s been a focal point and meeting place for residents. It also offers me the chance to stress to my neighbors the importance of eating organic, healthy foods.” Interested volunteers are invited to join in at 460 James P. Brawley Dr., NW this Sunday, June 14th at 2PM.
WESTSIDE CONNECT ESTABLISHES HELPLINE FOR HISTORIC WESTSIDE RESIDENTS
In response to COVID-19, Westside Connect, a collaborative effort involving multiple service providers serving Westside neighborhoods, has established a helpline to make it easier for residents to access critical resources. Westside Connect serves as a coordinated system designed to identify residents’ basic needs and connect individuals and families to resources via facilitated referrals to a range of agencies. Since May 26th, knowledgeable staff have manned the Westside Connect Helpline, assisting residents with access to food, health care, counseling, housing opportunities, employment assistance and financial coaching, and information about COVID-19 testing. The number for the Helpline is: 404-430-8180. In addition, Westside Connect is expanding access to health care by offering free telehealth services. Residents can simply text “WESTSIDE” to 51555 to be connected to a doctor.
PROGRESS AT 395 JAMES P BRAWLEY
Westside Future Fund’s extensive renovation of 395 James P Brawley Dr. in English Avenue is approximately 60% complete and will conclude in late Summer. Once finished, this new community will offer 31 new units, including 1-, 2-, and 3-bedroom layouts. WFF will make these apartments available through its Home on the Westside program, which prioritizes legacy residents and those with a connection to the Historic Westside. As affordability remains a crucial focus of WFF’s redevelopment work, the organization will collaborate with the City to offer a portion of the units at 395 James P. Brawley at subsidized rents via Atlanta Housing’s Homeflex rental assistance program. Individuals interested in housing opportunities through Home on the Westside can register by completing an interest form here.